4 Healthy Habits For Managing Epilepsy

Little things you do every day can have a big impact on your epilepsy.

If you currently live with epilepsy, making certain lifestyle adjustments can help you manage your condition and potentially prevent seizures. 

Most of the suggestions are not drastic. They’re simple modifications or additions to your routine that can not only help you better manage your condition, but also improve your health overall.

Here are six healthy habits to adopt to help you manage epilepsy:

Manage Stress

Stress management is important for managing seizures and your health overall. 

Here are some strategies to help you manage stress:

1. Recognize what is causing your stress. Understanding the root cause can help you address it more effectively.
2. Deep breathing exercises, and meditation, can help you relax and reduce stress.
3. Prioritize tasks. Create a schedule or to-do list to help you stay organized and reduce feeling overwhelmed.
4. Talk to friends, family, or a trusted person about what you’re going through. Sharing your feelings can provide relief.
5. Set boundaries. Learn to say no when necessary. It’s important to recognize your limits and avoid taking on too much, which can contribute to stress.
6. Take part in activities that bring you joy and help you unwind.
7. If stress becomes overwhelming and starts to interfere with your daily life, consider reaching out to a counselor who can provide guidance and support.

Stay Active

Studies have shown that regular exercise provides physical and emotional benefits for people living with epilepsy. For example, in some people, exercise may improve…

1. Seizure control
2. Some side effects of seizure medications
3. Mood disorders associated with epilepsy, including depression and anxiety
4. Sleep
5. Cognition (for example, thinking, memory, attention)
6. Overall quality of life

 In 2015, the International League Against Epilepsy published new guidelines about safety and sport for people with epilepsy. 

People with seizures can participate in a variety of sports without any significant additional risks. Popular activities include:

1. Baseball
2. Basketball
3. Soccer
4. Tennis
5. Golf

Eat Healthy

Eating a healthy diet can play a supportive role in managing epilepsy, but it’s important to note that it’s not a standalone treatment and should be part of an overall treatment plan. 

Here are a few suggestions for managing epilepsy through healthy eating:

1. Balanced diet: Aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This can help provide essential nutrients for an overall well-being.
2. Ketogenic diet: Some people with epilepsy may benefit from a ketogenic diet, which is high in healthy fats, moderate in protein, and low in carbohydrates. This diet mimics the fasting state, leading to ketone production in the body, which may have seizure management effects for some individuals. The ketogenic diet should be followed under medical supervision.
3. Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid any specific food triggers that may worsen seizures. Common triggers can vary, but some people report sensitivity to caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and specific food additives. Keeping a seizure diary can help track any patterns.
4. Regular meals and hydration: Stick to regular meal times to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Dehydration can also potentially trigger seizures, so it’s important to stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
5. Medication interactions: Some medications used for epilepsy may interact with certain foods or supplements, affecting their absorption or effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.

 Remember, it’s crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or a registered dietitian, who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and medical history.

 Create a sleep-friendly bedroom

1. Optimize lighting: Ensure your bedroom has blackout curtains or blinds to block out light sources that could disrupt your sleep. Use dimmer soft lighting options to create a relaxing atmosphere before bed.
2. Comfortable bedding: Invest in a good quality mattress, pillows, and bedding that suit your personal preferences. Choose materials that are breathable and help regulate body temperature for a comfortable night’s sleep.
3. Noise control: Reduce or supplement noise by using a white noise machine, or a fan to create a soothing background sound.
4. Temperature control: Maintain a cool and comfortable temperature in your bedroom. Consider using a fan, air conditioner, or a room humidifier to adjust the climate according to your preferences.
5. Limit electronic devices: Minimize the use of electronic devices in the bedroom, especially before bedtime. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your sleep. Create a screen-free routine before sleep to allow your mind to unwind.
6. Create a bedtime routine: Establish a consistent routine that helps signal to your body that it’s time to sleep. This can include activities like reading a book, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation or prayer.

 Talk to your doctor before using sleep aids

Though sleeping aids may be used to help manage sleep-related issues that can sometimes be associated with seizures, it’s important to address this matter cautiously and speak with your healthcare provider. Sleep disturbances such as insomnia, can potentially affect seizure control, However, the use of sleeping aids in relation to seizures should always be discussed with a doctor, They can evaluate your specific situation, identify potential interactions with seizure medication, and provide their evaluation as to whether or not sleeping aids are appropriate for you. 

Takeaway

Making these small adjustments can help manage seizures and overall health. It’s a terrific method in self care. Consider taking a step in this direction today!